Just 60 days in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery admonished him for not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. As the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
That’s a rather hard proposition to address. History, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, even as the victories have stacked up.
According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the side had an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side who have just won ten consecutive victories, Villa seem curiously susceptible – but currently the margins are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again when facing United.
The initial strike came from a superb shot, arced just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. Against United, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the ball into the top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
- The winger may rediscover the force he showed during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the hero stood in front of the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
